The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

The Joan is committed to providing inclusive, quality arts experiences for all audiences, including ensuring access. We prefer to engage directly with our patrons with disability to gain a full understanding of your needs and provide you with the best possible service.

Companion Cards

• The Joan accepts Companion Card bookings.

Wheelchairs and Level Access

• Our theatres are equipped with space for wheelchairs with strong sight lines and easy access.

• Both entranceways to The Joan have level access to the ground floor foyer, which includes Box Office, the lift and accessible toilets. Box Office is located halfway between the two entranceways on the ground floor foyer and is equipped with an accessible counter.

Box Office

• To provide excellent service, we prefer our patrons with a need of one of our wheelchair spaces to call our Box Office on (02) 4723 7600 to book tickets.

Parking

• Accessible parking is available within walking distance from The Joan at Penrith City Council’s Car Park and Westfield Penrith’s Car Park. Please note, parking times on the signage.

Facilities

Accessible toilets are located on:

• Ground Floor – Opposite the entrance to the lift; and
• Level Two – Opposite the studio rooms.

Relaxed Performances and Visual Stories

The show on Thursday 24 April at 12pm will be presented as a relaxed performance. Click here to download the visual story to read to your child before seeing the show.

What is a relaxed performance?
Relaxed performances welcome audiences who would benefit from a more relaxed environment – this can include but is not limited to people with autism, sensory sensitivities, learning disabilities or dementia, as well as those living with anxiety or who have experienced trauma.

The atmosphere is non-judgmental, and we embrace noisy enthusiasm. Audience members can also bring their headphones to reduce noise if they wish.

Specifically for relaxed performances, we leave the house lights on (dimmed), the auditorium doors stay open, and some technical elements may be modified, for example, strong lighting or sound effects are moderated.

What is a visual story?
Using both words and pictures, a Visual Story (also known as a Social Story) introduces children to what they can expect during their visit to the theatre. They briefly tell the story of your journey from the start to the end of the event in a factual way, offering positive options to help with fears and triggers such as loud noises.

For more information or to discuss your specific needs, please visit or call Box Office on (02) 4723 7600.

Created by Jonathan Rockefeller
Based on Eric Carle’s Books

Associate Director: Liesel Badorrek
Music and Sound: Nate Edmondson
Scenic Design: David Goldstein
Puppets by: Rockefeller Productions
Builders and Fabricators: Arlee Chadwick, Jessica Lorence and AchesonWalsh

Cast:
Tina Jackson
Mathew Lee
Hannah Wood

Company Stage Manager: Jesse Hilford
Deputy Stage Manager: Emily Tighe